The Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) has expressed deep concern over what it describes as the "worrisome" silence of Igbo political appointees in President Bola Tinubu's government. The group is specifically troubled by their alleged failure to advocate for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Condemnation of Silence and Calls for Action
In a strongly-worded statement issued in Enugu on 5 December 2025, MASSOB bemoaned the Tinubu administration over the life imprisonment sentence handed to Kanu, which it views as unjust. The group had previously rejected the judgment, stating it was an action against the Igbo people, whom Kanu represents.
The statement, signed by the National Director of Information, Edeson Samuel, directly called on Igbo appointees to leverage their positions and closeness to the President. MASSOB singled out Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu and Dave Umahi, noting they are not only close to the President but are part of his kitchen cabinet.
"Ndigbo want to see your efforts towards the release of Kanu from Sokoto State prison because you represent Ndigbo with Igbo slots in this administration," the group declared.
Pointing to Precedents of Kinsmen Intervention
MASSOB argued that Igbo political office holders should learn from the examples of other activists who gained freedom through the intervention of their kinsmen in government. The group cited the case of Sunday Igboho, who was released from prison after his people appealed to the Tinubu administration.
Furthermore, they referenced Dokubo Asari and the late Fredrick Fasheun, who also secured their freedom from the Federal Government through similar interventions by their people in positions of power.
Praise for Supportive Figures
In contrast to the criticism leveled at political appointees, MASSOB commended the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, and the Anglican Bishop of Oji River Diocese, Bishop Ikechukwu Egbonu. The group hailed their eloquence and bold move in visiting and encouraging Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto prison.
"Your visitation has shown a concern for brotherhood and friendship. We encourage other Igbo leaders to emulate this brotherhood that will soon blossom into a national monument," the statement added, offering a model for the kind of support it expects from community leaders.
The group's message underscores a growing tension within the Igbo political landscape, highlighting a perceived disconnect between the plight of a prominent figure like Kanu and the actions of his ethnic kinsmen in federal government positions.
